treat yourself well.

what it means to always serve God

When we think of what it means to serve God, we likely see someone preaching from a pulpit. They’re seeking out new followers, or maybe knocking on a ton of doors to hand out books.

Serving God can certainly look like this, but that’s only the tip of the iceberg. By limiting our perception of how to serve God, we’re downplaying our ability to always serve Him. God has the opportunity to work through us in every thought and action.

What does that even mean, to always serve God? That’s seems like a lot of pressure… Human beings aren’t perfect. We don’t always act like God’s watching us and “judging” our intentions. And if we are aware and intentional, how can we best approach serving and praising the Lord?

God is merciful. He wants us to come to Him and share His Word. We aren’t all meant to serve God in the same way, but we can all make His presence known. Let’s reflect upon this message and see how we can incorporate it into our every moment.

what the Bible says.

Many of the memorable Bible stories inevitably focus on miraculous acts of heavenly intervention and/or people that serve God in traditional ways.

The obvious example is Jesus healing the blind, the sick, and even resurrecting the dead. Luke 9:11 says, “When the crowds learned it [Jesus’ healing], they followed Him, and He welcomed them and spoke to them of the kingdom of God and cured those who had need of healing.” The people were drawn closer to God not only because they were in Jesus’ presence, but also because they were exposed to true service to God.

Another obvious example is spreading God’s name and majesty through word of mouth. Matthew 28:19 says, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” These commandments are very visible and clear. It’s practically a to-do list for every Christian if they want to serve God.

However, this isn’t where our service should cease. Faith is far more than recruiting new followers. It’s one thing to spread His Word, but how do people continue to believe His Word? What keeps them spiritually minded? The answer: knowing how to serve God in many ways.

what about evangelism?

To serve God through evangelism has seemed to take on a persona larger than life. You likely think of booming voices standing on a stage or starring in an infomercial. In my opinion, the “televangelism” movement stirs people far away from the true essence of religion and spirituality. This is not equivalent to our definition of serving God.

When we assume that to serve God means to be an evangelist, we downplay every other action and intention. It’s as if our faith turns on and off, depending on the circumstances. We “only” serve God when we hand out Bibles and preach the Gospel. We “only” serve God when we successfully bring in money to the church.

However, faith is always in action. Being faithful is a state of mind and being. There’s no price tag on it. We don’t have to prove anything to anyone else. You don’t have to be super loud and extroverted to participate in or promote the power of religion.

Jesus comes in as a great example of this sentiment. He wasn’t loud or boastful. Yes, He’s the Son of God who did miraculous acts, but He was most often praying in solitude. His connection with the Father was strong enough to be nailed to the cross! Even before His crucifixion, He took the time to pray. Mark 14:32 says, “And they went to the place called Gethsemane. And He said to His disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” Now that is some true dedication.

Yes, evangelism in the traditional sense is important—it’s how faith has spread across the globe. Evangelism is a single way to serve God, but we have so many other ways to do so. These ways don’t require certain criteria, a certain personality, nor a certain amount of privilege.

other ways to serve God

By this point, if you haven’t considered yet as how you can more effectively serve God in every moment, what are you doing? No judgment, but…seriously.

We’re each placed on this earth for a purpose. God has a plan for everyone. We all have the potential to do amazing things, far beyond we could ever fathom. Our own plans are nothing compared to His wisdom and insight.

As you continue through life, you’ll discover your strengths and passions. Through embracing these skills and using them for good, you’re essentially serving God. Yes, it’s that simple!

I believe humanity is meant to not only serve God, but to also serve one another. Our significance is materialized through the impact we make on other people. As Les Miserables famously said, “To love another person is to see the face of God.”

The essence of serving God is to lead a life according to His love and compassion. Abide by the Golden Rule. Be kind to everyone you come across. Choose to see the Holy Spirit within every soul. Walk each day with gratitude and hope.

2 Timothy 3:10 says, “You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness…” All these qualities are ones that serve God because they originate in Him. All good things come from God. Recognizing these qualities in ourselves and others therefore equates to serving God.

I highly recommend praying and meditating on how you personally can serve God. You shouldn’t always look to others’ examples of what you assume is right for you. Ask for God’s wisdom and understanding, to help uncover what you’re meant to do.

Keep spreading His Word. Go to church and worship. Read the Bible. But follow your calling and make decisions each day that align with Him. Have God as an active proponent of your worldview. Don’t just set Him aside for the traditional means of service.

What are some ways you serve God each day? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.